It will operate under the ministry and its main task will be to develop a comprehensive assessment of the risk of terrorism or other threats affecting the country based on the analysis of data affecting national security, public security and other basic security.

TIBEK will operate an information supply system and prepare assessments for the government. In line with an amendment to the original proposal on setting up TIBEK, services overseen by various other ministries will not automatically supply data to TIBEK.

The law also regulates phone services and obliges service providers to release data to the authorities. The service providers must sign contracts with the national security services governing the conditions of secret data gathering.

Under the new law, the counterterrorism centre (TEK) will be authorised to protect not only specific individuals but also designated institutions.

Under a proposal submitted by the opposition Socialists, the law on police will also introduce the “heightened security” category applicable at the time of terrorist acts or during the preparation of such acts. Accordingly, in addition to personal checks of identification documents, clothing and vehicles, and the seizing of hazardous materials, police will be authorised to stop events and restrict public transport or road transport.

Police will be authorised to introduce the heightened security measures for up to 72 hours, extendable by another 72 hours. The national police chief can decide to extend heightened security for an even longer period if substantive and corroborated information so justifies.

Under a change in the criminal code, minors aged between 12 and 14 will be punishable for acts of terrorism. Anyone leaving or travelling through Hungary in order to join terrorist groups and those who incite or promote terrorism before the wider public will also be punishable.

The majority of measures approved by parliament will become applicable on the 15th day following the law’s proclamation.

Republished with permission of Hungary Matters, MTI’s daily newsletter.